Opening Times
Picture this… You’re answering emails with your toes in the sand. You’re joining video calls with mountain views behind you. Or you’re brainstorming your next big idea from a cosy café in Lisbon.
Welcome to the world of workcations, where work and travel come together.
As remote and hybrid working become increasingly common, more people are discovering they don’t need to stay tied to a single location. A workcation gives you the freedom to explore new places while staying productive and connected.
With the right planning, a workcation can help you recharge, spark fresh ideas, and enjoy the best of both worlds.
What is a workcation?
A workcation combines work and vacation, hence the name workcation.
Rather than taking time off completely, you continue working remotely while travelling to a new destination. It could mean spending a month in a Portuguese coastal town, working from a countryside cottage in the UK, or taking your laptop to a vibrant European city.
Unlike a traditional holiday, you’re not trying to squeeze sightseeing into every spare minute. Instead, you create a routine that allows you to work efficiently and enjoy your surroundings when the laptop closes.
Think of it as temporarily relocating your office – with a much better view.
Why are workcations so popular?
Workcations are becoming increasingly popular as more people embrace flexible and remote working. They offer the chance to stay productive while enjoying a change of scenery, helping travellers make the most of their time away.
Improved wellbeing
A change of environment can do wonders for your mental wellbeing. Stepping away from your usual surroundings gives your mind a chance to reset, helping reduce stress and boost your mood.
Many remote workers report feeling more energised and motivated when they break away from their normal routine.
Fresh ideas and better productivity
New places often inspire new ways of thinking. Different sights, sounds, and experiences can spark creativity and help you approach challenges from a fresh perspective. Some people even find they’re more productive away from the distractions of home.
A better work-life blend
Rather than constantly trying to separate work and life, a workcation allows the two to fit together more naturally. You’ll still meet your work commitments while creating space for new experiences, helping you feel more balanced and fulfilled.
Common workcation challenges (And how to overcome them)
A workcation can be a fantastic way to combine work and travel, but it comes with a few challenges. The good news? With a little planning, most are easy to manage.
Finding the right balance
One of the biggest challenges is knowing when to stop working. Without clear boundaries, it’s easy to let work spill into your free time – or spend too much time exploring when you should be focusing. When your office and holiday destination are in the same place, the lines between work and leisure can quickly become blurred.
Top tip: Set clear working hours and stick to them. Let your colleagues know when you’ll be available, and try to create a dedicated workspace where possible. When your workday ends, close your laptop and make the most of your surroundings.
Staying productive
Poor internet connections, time zone differences, and tempting distractions can all affect your productivity. Staying focused can sometimes be more difficult than expected.
The key is to prepare ahead of time. Choosing accommodation with reliable Wi-Fi and understanding how your destination’s time zone fits with your working day can help avoid unnecessary stress.
Top tip: Research internet reliability before booking accommodation and have a backup plan, such as a mobile hotspot. It’s also worth testing your connection when you arrive, especially if you’ll be attending important meetings or video calls.
Remembering to take breaks
Some people feel guilty about enjoying themselves while working away. Others become so focused on exploring that they forget to properly rest and recharge.
Taking regular breaks isn’t a distraction from work – it’s an important part of staying productive and looking after your wellbeing. A short walk or simply stepping away from your screen can help you return to work feeling refreshed and focused.
Top tip: Remember that productivity is measured by results, not hours. Schedule breaks and downtime just as you would meetings, and give yourself permission to enjoy the destination you’ve travelled to see.
How to plan the perfect workcation
A successful workcation doesn’t happen by accident. Taking the time to plan ahead can help you stay productive and make the most of your destination once the workday is done.
Set clear goals
Before you book your flights or accommodation, think about what you want to achieve. Are you hoping to complete a major project, maintain your usual workload, or simply enjoy a change of scenery while keeping on top of your responsibilities?
Having clear goals will help you choose the right destination, create a realistic schedule, and set expectations with your employer or clients.
Ask yourself:
- What work commitments will I have while I’m away?
- How many hours do I need to work each day?
- What do I want to see and do in my destination?
- How can I balance both without feeling rushed?
Choose the right destination
Not every destination is suited to a workcation. While stunning scenery is always a bonus, practical considerations are just as important.
Look for destinations that offer reliable internet, comfortable accommodation, and a time zone that works with your schedule. If you’ll be attending regular meetings, a location only a few hours ahead or behind the UK may make life easier.
It’s also worth considering the local lifestyle. A destination with great cafés, co-working spaces, public transport, and activities can make your time away even more enjoyable.
Create a flexible routine
One of the biggest advantages of a workcation is the freedom to structure your day differently. Rather than trying to fit everything into a rigid schedule, create a routine that allows time for both work and exploration.
Many people prefer to tackle their most important tasks in the morning before heading out to explore during the afternoon or evening. Others may choose to work around local activities or time zone requirements.
The key is to find a routine that keeps you productive while allowing you to enjoy the destination you’ve travelled to experience.
Top tip: Plan your work commitments first, then schedule sightseeing, meals, and activities around them. This can help you avoid last-minute stress and make the most of your free time.
Best destinations for a workcation
The perfect workcation destination looks different for everyone. Some people thrive in bustling cities filled with cafés and co-working spaces, while others prefer coastal towns, mountain retreats, or countryside escapes.
When choosing where to go, think about what will help you stay productive as well as what you’ll enjoy outside working hours. Reliable internet, comfortable accommodation, and a suitable time zone are all important, but so is finding a destination that inspires you.
Portugal
Portugal has become one of Europe’s most popular workcation destinations, and it’s easy to see why. Cities such as Lisbon and Porto offer reliable internet, excellent transport links, and a growing remote-working community.
When the working day is over, you can wander historic streets, enjoy fresh seafood by the coast, or watch the sunset from one of Lisbon’s famous viewpoints.
Spain
Whether you’re drawn to Barcelona’s city-meets-beach lifestyle or Valencia’s relaxed atmosphere, Spain offers a fantastic balance between work and leisure. With a similar time zone to the UK and plenty of cafés and co-working spaces, it’s a convenient option for remote workers who want sunshine without travelling too far.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam combines excellent digital infrastructure with a laid-back way of life. Its compact size makes it easy to explore before or after work, whether you’re cycling along canals, visiting museums, or discovering local neighbourhoods.
The city’s strong English-speaking community also makes it an easy choice for UK travellers.
Closer to home
You don’t have to travel overseas to enjoy a successful workcation. The UK is full of destinations that offer a welcome change of scenery without the need to navigate different time zones.
The Cornish coast, the Scottish Highlands, the Lake District, and the Yorkshire Dales all provide opportunities to combine productive working days with beautiful surroundings and outdoor adventures.
Do I need special travel insurance for a workcation?
Working remotely while travelling can affect your travel insurance needs.
If your trip is primarily for business purposes, you may need Business Cover, particularly if you’re taking work equipment such as laptops, tablets, or other business-related items. InsureandGo offers optional Business Cover, which can provide protection for business equipment and other work-related essentials while you’re away.
Before you travel, check:
- Whether your trip would be classed as a leisure trip or a business trip
- If you’ll be carrying work equipment
- Whether Business Cover is included on your policy
- Any policy conditions that may apply to the type of work you’ll be doing
If you’re unsure, contact InsureandGo before you travel to make sure you have the right cover in place.
Work smarter, travel further
A workcation gives you the opportunity to see more of the world without pressing pause on your career. With the right planning, you can stay productive while making the most of your surroundings.
So, if you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to answer emails with a sea view or finish your workday ready to explore somewhere new, a workcation could be the perfect way to combine business and adventure.
Wherever you’re heading next, make sure you’re prepared for the journey with travel insurance – and enjoy every moment along the way.
